22 April 2025

New water main alignment and pressure reducing station map

We're upgrading the Eastern Freeway with new express lanes, new traffic management technology, Melbourne's first express busway and a seamless connection to North East Link.

As part of the Eastern Freeway upgrade, we're relocating a Pressure Reducing Station (PRS) to Timber Ridge Reserve and upgrading water mains on Ayr Street and Timber Ridge.

The PRS is an important part to regulating water pressure to ensure a steady and reliable supply for homes and businesses. The new station will be housed in a compact 18.9m x 15.1m structure at the corner of Timber Ridge Reserve, requiring only a small portion of the reserve.. We've worked with Yarra Valley Water and Manningham Council to identify the most suitable location for the relocated PRS. Timber Ridge Reserve has been chosen due to its proximity to existing infrastructure and its ability to accommodate the new station.


What is a Pressure Reducing Station (PRS)?

The PRS contains valves and plumbing that control and stabilise water pressure before it is distributed through the network. This helps prevent damage to pipes, ensures steady water flow, and supports efficient water delivery to homes and businesses. It plays a key role in maintaining a safe and effective water supply for the community.

Will there be any disruption to my service?

There may be occasional disruptions to water services during construction. Where possible, we will carry out these disruptions overnight to minimise impact on businesses and residents. Yarra Valley Water will provide advance notice of any  planned disruptions, including the timing and expected duration.

Will I still be able to access my property during the works?

Access to your property will be maintained throughout the works along Ayr Street and Timber Ridge. However, there may be occasional delays or detours as construction progresses. Traffic management will be in place to help you safely navigate the area.

Once complete, how often will the Pressure Reducing Station be accessed?

Once the PRS is built, Yarra Valley Water will take over its maintenance, occasionally accessing the station for servicing and parking next to the PRS as needed.


Timber Ridge Reserve map showing location of Pressure Reducing Station in bottom left hand corner

What we're doing

From late April 2025, we'll begin preparing the site at Timber Ridge Reserve. This will include site investigations, setting up temporary fencing, and bringing in equipment for the construction of the Pressure Reducing Station (PRS). A small area for worker amenities and to store equipment and materials will also be established.

Construction will begin with installing new drainage, plumbing and electrical services. The work at this location will keep going until September 2025.

Water main upgrades

On Ayr Street, the water main will be upgraded between High Street and Norweena Street using an underground boring machine to install new water pipes beneath the road that will connect into existing network. We'll work in stages, setting up entry and exit points for the machine along the route. We'll use the same method on Timber Ridge between Ayr Street and the reserve.

After construction of the PRS, we'll check to ensure its operating correctly and reinstate the work area at the reserve, including building a concrete crossover for maintenance access.

What to expect

You can expect medium to high levels of noise, dust and vibration during these works. You may also see workers and construction vehicles in the area during this time.

At times, our works may require lane and road closures in the area with detours in place. We'll maintain access for residents during works. We'll let you know in advance of any traffic changes.

When we’ll be working

Day works: 6am to 7pm, Monday to Friday and 7am to 3pm Saturdays

Night works: 7pm to 6am, Monday to Saturday

We’ll have strict controls in place to manage potential construction impacts during night works.

How we’ll manage impacts

Our project is managed in line with strict Environmental Performance Requirements (EPRs).

We’ll monitor and assess these impacts ongoing using real-time technology and have a range of on-site measures in place including frequent water cart spraying of work areas with dust stabilisers and transporting material in sealed and secured loads.

Keeping in touch

We’ll continue to work closely with the community to manage impacts from construction and provide updated information on our work. We’ll also be hosting a series of community pop ups in the lead up to major disruptions. Keep a look out for these sessions if you would like to come by and have a chat.

If you have concerns or questions about construction impacts, call us on 1800 105 105, anytime.

For languages other than English please call 9209 0147.

Please contact us if you would like this information in an accessible format. If you need assistance due to a hearing or speech impairment, please visit relayservice.gov.au